Drinking Alaska Whiskey
Alaska may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of whiskey making. Bourbon country is classically deep in the heart of the Southern US, where the spirit first took root. In the past few decades, local whiskey distilleries have sought to put their own mark on the category, creating unique blends in regions around the globe.
At Port Chilkoot Distillery, we know that whiskey and the Last Frontier go hand in hand. Alaska’s arctic winters demand a spirit that warms you to the core. That is why we make our very own line of Alaska whiskeys — produced grain to barrel on site at our Haines distillery and blended with premium whiskeys sourced from Kentucky. The resulting bottles are bold and bracing with a distinct sense of place, transporting you to the rugged beauty of Alaska with a single sip.
Boatwright Bourbon
Meticulously made with the same attention a boat maker brings to his trade, our Boatwright Bourbon is a blend of two Straight Bourbon Whiskeys. One is made entirely on site at our Alaska distillery, while the other is a high quality expression from our friends in Kentucky. When melded together, we create a sum that is greater than its individual parts, a Bourbon that is truly Alaskan.
Boatwright has a deep amber hue and woody aroma. The initial sip is lightly sweet with hints of spice and good heat. As the bourbon blooms on the palate, it finishes with notes of vanilla and stone fruit. We consider Boatwright an easy drinking whiskey, approachable and enjoyable by all.
Delicious neat, on ice, or as the base of your favorite whiskey cocktail, Boatwright Bourbon is incredibly versatile. We reach for it often in our Tasting Room when making craft cocktails — try one of our most popular recipes below!
Suckerpunch
1.5 Boatwright Bourbon
.5 Blackberry Syrup
.5 Fresh Lime Juice
.25 Ginger Syrup
Add all ingredients to shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a Collins glass. Top with seltzer and garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel and ginger.
Wrack Line Rye
Wrack Line Rye is full of character, inspired by the abundant marine life found along the shoreline of Haines. With a mash bill of 70 percent rye, Wrack Line is sharp yet balanced. Distilled at Port Chilkoot in small batches, we then barrel age our rye for at least three years. Once matured to perfection, we combine Wrack Line with a Straight Rye Whiskey made in Kentucky.
Smooth and dry, Wrack Line Rye tastes of oak and spice. Appreciate the subtle undertones of white pepper and caramel as you sip. We like to pour a hearty amount over fresh ice and savor. Wrack Line Rye stands up well mixed with ginger beer and lime, or in a classic Manhattan - recipe below!
Wrack Line Manhattan
2 oz Wrack Line Rye
1 oz Sweet Vermouth
3 dash angostura bitters
Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled and properly diluted. Strain into a frozen coupe glass and garnish with a cherry.